Production Machinist

RIX Industries is a technology-focused company specializing in the design, development and manufacturing of gas generation systems, precision compressor solutions, and cryogenic cooling technologies for critical applications in Marine, Aerospace, Land, Energy, Industrial, Medical, and Critical Infrastructure markets. Founded in 1878, the company is headquartered in Benicia, CA, and operates additional facilities in Sparks, NV.

Position Summary

The Production Machinist is responsible for performing precision machining operations and mechanical assembly of RIX compressor systems and components. This position requires the ability to independently operate machining equipment, interpret engineering drawings, and transition between machining and assembly duties based on production needs while maintaining quality, efficiency, and safety standards.

Responsibilities

Set up, adjust, and operate manual and/or CNC mills, lathes, and related machining equipment to manufacture, modify, and rework precision components. Collaborate with Production Lead, Supervisor, and Manufacturing Engineers to evaluate unit readiness, address fitment issues, and resolve process deviations. Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and work instructions to determine machining requirements, dimensions, and tolerances.

Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, and machining methods to complete assigned work. Perform machining operations such as turning, milling, drilling, boring, tapping, and other operations as required. Inspect completed work using precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and gauges, to verify conformance with specifications.

Identify and troubleshoot machining issues, dimensional discrepancies, and equipment concerns, escalating problems when necessary. Transition between machining tasks and production assembly duties during downtime to support cell throughput and maintain continuous manufacturing flow. Provide quality, on time assembly of compressors, generators, and associated parts and pieces.

Assemble compressors and/or their subassemblies, according to customer’s needs, following blueprints and other written and verbal specifications. Maintain the plant facilities and equipment as directed. Misc. duties may include painting, general cleaning and basic building maintenance. Participate in cross training within the Production Department.

Set up and test-run completed machines. Adhere to all safety policies and practices. Support 5S, lean manufacturing initiatives, and continuous improvement processes to enhance quality, cell efficiency, and shop safety. Maintain accurate records, job tracking sheets, inspection logs and ERP system updates. Perform all other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience operating manual and/or CNC mills and lathes in a precision manufacturing environment. Demonstrated mechanical assembly experience, preferably with industrial machinery, rotating equipment, or fluid power systems. Strong ability to read, interpret, and understand engineering drawings, mechanical schematics, bill of materials (BOMs), and work instructions.

Proficiency with precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges, indicators) and basic shop equipment/tooling. Solid mathematical skills, including the ability to perform shop calculations involving fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic geometry. Effective communication skills (oral and written) to exchange technical information and collaborate across cross-functional cell teams.

Citizenship Requirement: Must be a U.S. Citizen or qualified U.S. Person in accordance with 22 CFR 120.15 (ITAR compliance).

Preferred Qualifications

Certificate in CNC Machining, Machining Manufacturing Technologies, or equivalent combination of education from a technical school or vocational training program. Experience working within an ERP tracking system for job tracking. Prior experience in both production machining and mechanical unit assembly within a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing layout.

Experience in the manufacturing, assembly, or reconditioning of high-pressure air/gas compressors, pumps, or cryogenic equipment. Physical Requirements

1. This position is regularly exposed to the following conditions: Manufacturing, warehouse and office environment. While working near moving equipment, mechanical parts and lift trucks; must have the ability to follow safe operating procedures. May be exposed to loud noise, fumes and/or toxic chemicals.
2. Must have the following physical abilities: Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, stretch, reach, and lift. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly. Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at a desk or table as well as machine tools or printers. Work Environment Production Compensation: $30.00 + DOE Equal Opportunity RIX Industries is committed to a continuing program of equal employment opportunity. All persons have equal employment opportunities with RIX Industries, regardless of their sex, race, color, age, religion, creed, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition (cancer or genetic characteristics), marital status, gender (including gender identity or gender expression), familial status, military or veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related conditions (or any other group or category within the framework of the applicable discrimination laws and regulations).